Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Simmer the Broth
- Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add Vegetables & Pasta
- Stir in the diced zucchini, green beans, rinsed cannellini beans, and kidney beans. Increase the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the small pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth or water.
Finish and Serve
- Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the hot minestrone soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Storage: Leftover minestrone soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta will absorb more liquid over time, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
Make Ahead: If making ahead for a party or meal prep, you can cook the pasta separately and add it to individual bowls right before serving to prevent it from getting too mushy.
Variations: Feel free to customize with other vegetables like diced potatoes, cabbage, or bell peppers. For a heartier soup, you can add cooked shredded chicken or a small amount of pancetta sautéed with the aromatics.
Make Ahead: If making ahead for a party or meal prep, you can cook the pasta separately and add it to individual bowls right before serving to prevent it from getting too mushy.
Variations: Feel free to customize with other vegetables like diced potatoes, cabbage, or bell peppers. For a heartier soup, you can add cooked shredded chicken or a small amount of pancetta sautéed with the aromatics.
